Brudzinski’s Sign
When the patient's neck is flexed (after ruling out cervical trauma or injury), flexion of
the knees and hips is produced; when the lower extremity of one side is passively
flexed, a similar movement is seen in the opposite extremity
Assessment and Diagnostic Findings
- Bacterial culture and Gram staining of CSF and blood are key diagnostic tests
(Fischbach, 2002). - The presence of polysaccharide antigen in CSF further supports the diagnosis of
bacterial meningitis
Medical Management
- Prevention by vaccination against Haemophilus influenzae and S. pneumoniae for all
children and all at-risk adults
- Early administration of high doses of appropriate IV antibiotics (should cross BBB)
for bacterial meningitis - Dexamethasone
- Treatment dehydration, shock, and seizures
Nursing Management
- Frequent/continual assessment including VS and LOC
- Protect patient form injury related to seizure activity or altered LOC